UNICEF Statement on Baquer Namazi

NEW YORK (February 22, 2017) – “One year ago today, our respected former UNICEF colleague, Baquer Namazi, was imprisoned in Iran. Our concerns for his health and wellbeing have grown deeper with each passing day. 

“Mr. Namazi, 80 years old, is increasingly frail as a result of his imprisonment. He should be returned to the care of his family and friends. After a lifetime of humanitarian service, he has earned a peaceful retirement.
 
“We join his many colleagues around the world in appealing for his immediate release on humanitarian grounds.
 
“This is the fourth statement UNICEF has made since our colleague and friend was imprisoned. We hope and pray that our next will celebrate his release.”

About UNICEF
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information, contact:
Sophie Aziakou, U.S. Fund for UNICEF, 917.720.1397, saziakou@unicefusa.org